Streamlined Method for Determining Distribution System Hosting Capacity

This paper outlines the methodology of a streamlined analysis to determine the amount of photovoltaics that can be accommodated on a distribution feeder before adverse impacts occur (commonly termed hosting capacity). The solution can effectively be used in screening new interconnection requests, as well as estimating how much and where PV can be located such that grid upgrades are minimized. The method is being implemented in commercial distribution system analysis tools, where it can be applied systemwide or on individual feeders. The streamlined analysis of an individual feeder would take on the order of minutes compared to hours for a detailed analysis. Application of the results include improved screening tools, visualization of hosting capacity constrained feeders, and identification of problematic locations within a feeder. Speed and accuracy are mandatory; thus, the methodology has been compared and validated to detailed analyses.